Cataract Post Op Exams

Post-Op Exams

After cataract surgery, post-operative exams are crucial for monitoring the healing process and ensuring that the surgery was successful.

Here’s an overview of what to expect during these exams:

  1. First Post-Op Exam (Usually 24-48 Hours After Surgery)
  •  Purpose: To check for immediate complications, ensure the eye is healing, and verify that the intraocular lens (IOL) is properly positioned.

   What to Expect:

  • Visual Acuity Test: Your vision will be tested to assess improvement and rule out any immediate issues.
  • Eye Pressure Check: To ensure intraocular pressure is within a safe range.
  • Slit-Lamp Examination: The surgeon will examine the eye to check the cornea, lens, and other structures.
  • Instructions: You may be given or adjusted eye drops (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory), and specific instructions on care.
  1. One Week Post-Op Exam

  Purpose: To monitor the continued healing process and assess for any late-onset complications.

  What to Expect:

  • Visual Acuity Test: Further improvement in vision will be checked.
  •  Slit-Lamp Examination: Continued examination of the healing eye.
  • Eye Pressure Check: Ongoing monitoring of eye pressure.
  •  Discussion: You may discuss any discomfort, vision issues, or side effects.

  1. One Month Post-Op Exam

   Purpose: To confirm that the eye has fully healed and that the IOL is functioning properly.

  What to Expect:

  •  Comprehensive Eye Exam: A full assessment of the eye’s healing, visual acuity, and any remaining issues.
  •  Final Prescription: If needed, you may receive a prescription for new glasses.
  • Discharge Instructions: Final care instructions, and confirmation of any long-term care or follow-up needed.

  1. Additional Follow-Up Visits
  • Depending on your recovery, additional exams may be scheduled to address any complications or to monitor specific conditions like elevated intraocular pressure.

Common Post-Op Symptoms to Monitor:

  • Blurry Vision: This is common and usually clears up within a few days to weeks.
  • Dry Eye: Temporary dryness or discomfort is normal.
  • Floaters or Flashes: Mention these at your follow-up exams, as they could indicate retinal issues.
  • Redness or Swelling: Mild redness or swelling is common, but report any significant increase.

When to Seek Immediate Help:

  • Severe Pain: Should be reported immediately as it might indicate complications.
  • Sudden Vision Loss: This could be a sign of a serious issue.
  • Excessive Redness or Discharge: This may indicate an infection.

Long-Term Care:

  • After cataract surgery, regular eye exams are important to monitor for other conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration, especially as you age.


If you’re preparing for or recovering from cataract surgery, these exams are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome.

Contact us if you have any questions or concerns about Post Glaucoma Exams.